The star of the Surprise and Shine event was undoubtedly the iPhone Duo, but Apple quietly raised the prices of every other old iPhone model the company sells. At the same time, Apple has extended a crucial safety feature for yet another year, for free.
Satellite access remains free for iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 users
Apple extends free satellite connectivity for iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 users. | Image by Apple
This is the second extension for the iPhone 14, which launched back in 2022 with a 2-year trial for the feature. Apple extended it with one additional year in 2025, and this new extension will give users free access to satellite connectivity until 2027.
For the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 users, this is the first such extension, and even though the iPhone 16's free trial is still active, the device will benefit from one additional year when that trial expires.
Satellite features use Globalstar
Apple's satellite features use Globalstar network of satellites. | Image by Globalstar
The free satellite connectivity uses Apple's partner Globalstar and includes Emergency SOS, Messages via satellite, Find My via satellite, and Roadside Assistance via satellite.
Apple hasn't disclosed whether it will start charging for those features when the trial period runs out. The satellite features work without a cellular or WiFi connection and can be a lifesaver in a plethora of situations.
There are dozens and dozens of success stories involving Emergency SOS or Roadside Assistance via Satellite, so enjoy the free feature and peace of mind while the trial period lasts.
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It's worth noting that Apple's satellite features are not available in every country around the world. Here's a quick list.
How often do you use Apple's satellite connectivity features?
1 Votes
Apple satellite features availability by country
Emergency SOS via Satellite
Connects you directly to emergency services or relay centers when outside cellular and Wi-Fi coverage.
North America: United States, Canada, Mexico Europe: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, New Zealand
Messages via Satellite
Allows sending and receiving text messages, emojis, and Tapbacks over iMessage or SMS off the grid.
Available in: United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan
Find My via Satellite
Enables sharing or updating your live location with friends and family when you have no signal.
Available in: All countries and regions where Emergency SOS via satellite is supported.
Roadside Assistance via Satellite
Connects you to local roadside service providers (such as AAA in the US or Verizon Roadside) when stranded without cell reception.
Available in: United States, United Kingdom
Should you hold on to your old iPhone or upgrade?
2K reasons to upgrade from an older iPhone. | Image by Apple
Now that the iPhone 18 Pro series has been officially revealed, the usual question pops up once more. Is it time to upgrade?
For iPhone 14 users, this marks the fourth year into their device's life, and even though some might think of upgrading, there's still life in the old 14s. Apple hiked the prices of older iPhones, so getting an iPhone 16 or 17 became a more expensive endeavor.
The only reason for the upgrade for both iPhone 14 users and iPhone 15, 16, or 17 owners could be the temptation to hop on the foldable train and get the iPhone Duo.
Read more about iPhone satellite features and software updates here:
Mint Mobile is now allowing you to get whichever plan you like for either three, six, or 12 months for just $15/mo. If you go for the six-month unlimited service, for instance, you'll now have to pay just $90 upfront instead of $210.
Mariyan, a tech enthusiast with a background in Nuclear Physics and Journalism, brings a unique perspective to PhoneArena. His childhood curiosity for gadgets evolved into a professional passion for technology, leading him to the role of Editor-in-Chief at PCWorld Bulgaria before joining PhoneArena. Mariyan's interests range from mainstream Android and iPhone debates to fringe technologies like graphene batteries and nanotechnology. Off-duty, he enjoys playing his electric guitar, practicing Japanese, and revisiting his love for video games and Haruki Murakami's works.
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